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Sports Referee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 2 at the Farmington YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 2 at the Farmington YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Farmington YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Farmington YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Position Summary The Sports Referee assists in the execution of LT Sport league play by officiating league games. They work closely with Sports League Coordinators and players to ensure a respectful ...

Thorough knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules effectively. * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. * Experience refereeing sports preferred. * Previous experience working ...

Thorough knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules effectively. * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. * Experience refereeing sports preferred. * Previous experience working ...

Sports Official

Lansing, MI · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Job Advertisement The City of Lansing Parks & Recreation Department is looking for part-time Sports Officials to umpire, referee, and score keep various recreational programs within the community. If ...

Sports Aide

Milford, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

Sports Aide

Southgate, MI

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

Sports Aide

Farmington, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment, and materials. * Assists in ...

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Sports Referee information

See Michigan salary details

$5

$18

$51

How much do sports referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports referee in Michigan is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.48 and $19.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sports referee?

Sports referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during athletic competitions. They make decisions on plays, ensure fair play, and address any violations of the game's regulations. Referees may work in a variety of sports, such as soccer, basketball, or football, and often use signals, whistles, or flags to communicate their decisions. Their role is crucial for ensuring that games are played safely, fairly, and according to the established rules.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports referee?

To thrive as a Sports Referee, you need a thorough understanding of game rules, strong decision-making abilities, and, typically, official certification from a recognized sports body. Familiarity with timing devices, scorekeeping systems, and video review technology is often required, depending on the sport. Excellent communication, impartiality, and conflict resolution skills help referees maintain authority and manage interactions with players, coaches, and spectators. These competencies are vital to ensure fair play, uphold the integrity of the game, and manage high-pressure situations effectively.

What are some of the main challenges sports referees face during a game, and how can they effectively handle them?

Sports referees often encounter challenges such as making split-second decisions under pressure, handling disputes or disagreements from players and coaches, and maintaining impartiality throughout the game. To effectively handle these challenges, referees rely on thorough knowledge of the rules, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm and assertive in high-stress situations. Continuous training, experience, and feedback from peers or mentors also play a crucial role in helping referees refine their judgment and conflict resolution techniques.

How do I become a professional sports referee?

To become a professional sports referee, you typically need to complete relevant training and certification programs offered by sports governing bodies, gain experience officiating at lower levels, and pass practical exams. Maintaining good physical fitness and understanding the rules of the sport are essential for advancing to higher levels of officiating.

How much money do sports referees make?

Sports referees' earnings vary based on the level of competition, sport, and location. For example, high school referees typically earn $20 to $100 per game, while professional referees can make several thousand dollars per game or season, often supplemented by certifications and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Sports Referee jobs in Michigan?

For Sports Referee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Sports Referee jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Sports Referee job openings:

Infographic showing various Sports Referee job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,948 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Level 2 Sports Referee

ymcadetroit

Farmington, MI

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

FIND A CAREER THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
WITH A JOB AT THE Y!

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 2 at the Farmington YMCA

YMCA Employee Benefits

  • FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs

  • Flexible Scheduling

  • Family-friendly Work Environment

  • Employee Assistance Program & Retirement Plan

Position Summary

The Sports Referee Level 2 is responsible for officiating games with a higher level of complexity, ensuring fairness, safety, and sportsmanship among players. This position plays a key role in supporting the YMCA's mission by providing leadership and guidance to sports program participants

Education/Experience/Training/Certifications

  • Must be 18 years of age or older

  • Thorough knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules effectively.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

  • Experience refereeing sports preferred.

  • Previous experience working with children in a supervised setting preferred.

  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

  • Completion of YMCA Sports Referee Level 2 training.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

  • Arrives at games at least 15 minutes prior to game start time.

  • Demonstrates advanced knowledge of the sport and effectively enforces rules.

  • Conducts brief coach meetings before games and facilitates team gatherings.

  • Recites the Youth Sports Pledge to promote sportsmanship and respect.

  • Creates a positive and supportive game environment.

  • Stops play when necessary and explains violations consistently and fairly.

  • Develops authentic relationships with players, parents, and volunteers.

  • Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers.

  • Adheres to all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and safety procedures.

  • Works with varying age groups and manages large groups effectively.

  • Attends required staff meetings, training sessions, and other YMCA activities.

  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required.

For more opportunities to join our team, please visit the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit's career page (ymcadetroit.org/careers).